Last year, in this column I addressed on two occasions the issues associated with startup sheets for mechanical systems. In addition, one of ES' "Hvacr Designer Tips" provided an example of a typical startup sheet. This month I want to revisit the topic because the need for these sheets is becoming more and more important as commissioning becomes more and more important.

Two other terms for startup sheet that are being bantered about are "prefunctional" checklist and "system readiness" checklist. All three mean the same thing: a methodology to systematically prepare the mechanical equipment for operation. The detailed process, when applied, is proven to save valuable time for the contractor and, in turn, is helping this contractor to turn over the system in a timely manner. This is truly a culture change for most contractors, as well as a culture change for the building industry.